Polar Desert

Desert region with extremely cold temperatures.

Arctic desert Antarctic desert

A polar desert is a region characterized by extremely cold temperatures and minimal precipitation, typically less than 250 mm (10 inches) annually. They are found near the Arctic and Antarctic regions and share characteristics of both deserts and polar environments. Low precipitation results from cold air holding little moisture, and strong winds exacerbate aridity. Vegetation is sparse, often limited to lichens, mosses, and hardy shrubs.

Polar desert combines the terms 'polar,' relating to the Earth's poles, and 'desert,' referring to arid regions.

Desert Polar environment

Antarctic Polar Desert Arctic Polar Desert

cold climate natural object polar